Chapter 18 Persistent

Persistence is the ability to stick with a task when going gets tough. We all know people who start activities and stop as soon as they face an obstacle. I see it all the time in karate. Students start with enthusiasm, but it's awkward at first, and results come slowly, so they give up. They walk out just when things are about to get better.

Most people quit in life. They don't have the 'stick-to-it-ness' required to achieve their goals. Perhaps it's the quick-results mindset that holds them back. For example, it's not uncommon for novice karate students to except to be a master in a minute. Nowadays people want instant results. But real progress comes with endless repetition and a concerted effort towards improvement. You see, it takes time and ahard work to master a skill. there are no shortcuts. So if you don't have the time, don't expect the results.

Patience and persistence go hand in hand. They're like the ying and yang of commitment. Patience is the passive quality and persistence the more active. If you want to get ahead of the pack, stick with your pursuit until the end. That's the active part of commitment. Then don't be put off if the result isn't immediately visible. That's the passive element. it doesn't matter how slowly you're improving, the important thing is to keep going. Practice even when you feel like you're getting nowhere. That's the way to be your very best. Understand: the result will come, probably when you least expect it. So stick to your task.

Patience and persistence go hand in hand. They're like the ying and yang of commitment.

All that said, it's important not to get out of balance with this principle. Sometimes you need to know when to quit. If your efforts make you feel like you're moving backwards as opposed to moving forward, or standing still, then that's a signal to get some rest. If rest doesn't lead to recovery, ten perhaps you're on the wrong path. Consider alternative activities that are better suited to your natural talents.

No doubt, if you're ambitious and driven, knowing when to give up won't be easy. But don't let pride or stubbornness get in your way. Ask yourself honestly if you are quitting for the right or wrong reasons-then you'll know. Sure people don't want to be quitters. But there's no point persisting with an activity that's not right for you.